Inflatable Life Vests

Inflatable Life Vests

What are inflatable life vests and why would I choose them over traditional life vests? Inflatable life vests are a great choice for boaters, anglers, and paddle sport enthusiasts who are looking for a lightweight and comfortable PFD. These vests allow for ease of movement and are comfortable to wear all day long.

At Wholesale Marine, you’ll find a wide range of US Coast Guard approved inflatable life vests. Depending on their design, inflatable vests can be rated as Type III or Type V personal flotation devices. They don’t provide as much buoyancy as a Type I or Type II life jacket, but are popular for inshore boating, canoeing, fishing, and near-shore boating activities.

Types of Inflatable Life Vests

Wholesale Marine stocks a variety of inflatable vests from brands such as Onyx, Mustang, and Kent. Our selection includes manual inflatable vests, self-inflating life vests, and inflatable life belts.

Auto inflate life vests, also known as self-inflating life vests, automatically inflate when submerged in water. Automatic PFDs are a great option for recreational boaters and anglers, as they will immediately inflate if the wearer goes overboard. Auto vests like the Mustang HIT Automatic PFD have multiple safety features such as reflective tape and a safety whistle.

Manual vests, such as the popular Onyx Manual Inflatable Life Vest, come equipped with a handle that inflates the vest when pulled. Paddlers may prefer a vest with manual inflation to avoid accidental inflation if they tip over. If you’re having trouble deciding between an auto or manual vest, consider picking up an A/M vest. Auto/Manual vests allow for automatic inflation, but also offer a manual-only mode.

Primarily used by paddleboarders, inflatable life belts are incredibly comfortable with minimal bulk. Although inflatable belts like the Mustang Minimalist Belt Pack are USCG approved, it is recommended that they’re worn by skilled swimmers or group paddlers.

When shopping for an inflatable life jacket or vest, don’t forget to pick up a spare re-arm kit. Each time your vest is inflated, you will need to replace the CO2 cylinder – so make sure you have a spare! Have any additional questions about life vests? Our top-notch customer service team is available Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM at 1-877-388-2628.